Man hospitalised after clash before Atletico Madrid vs. Deportivo

The incident happened prior to the match between Atletico and Deportivo.

Officials say a man has been hospitalised in critical condition and 11 others suffered minor injuries after a fight broke out outside Atletico Madrid's stadium between its fans and those of Deportivo La Coruna.

Madrid emergency service SAMUR and police said the clash between the rival fans broke out at 0800 GMT Sunday near the Vicente Calderon stadium. One man with head injuries had to be rescued from the nearby Manzanares River.

The man, identified only as a 43-year-old Deportivo fan, was resuscitated and taken to Madrid's Clinico hospital.

Atletico Madrid published a statement on their official website, which read: "Club Atletico de Madrid strongly condemns the incidents that occurred in the area of Madrid Rio in the hours prior to the match that our team will play against Deportivo de La Coruña.

"The values promoted by sport must prevail over any rivalry and we must fight together against the scourge of violence."

Spanish league authorities had wanted the match to be postponed but said it was not possible.

The Liga de Futbol Profesional announced on its website: "The LFP expresses its condemnation at the incidents that took place on Sunday morning on the outskirts of the Vicente Calderon stadium before the week 13 match in La Liga between Atletico Madrid and Deportivo La Coruna.

"The LFP has been steadfast in its intention to suspend the match and it has not been possible. The association is working with Fans United, the national police and all clubs and societies to end violence, racism, xenophobia and intolerance in professional football."